Comments for A - H (Houkokuji)

The oldest shrine in Kamakura is "Amanawa Shinmei Miya" also called "Amanawa jinja" that enshrines Amaterasu Omikami 天照大神, the Sun Goddess.

She is the central deity of the Japanese mythology introduced in the two oldest chronicles of Japan.

Amanawa jinja also enshrines some other dieties and is Chinju, the Guardian shrine of the Hase area. It's said that Yoshiie Minamoto 源義家、a famous Genji Samurai about 100 years before Shogun Yoritomo, was born because his father worshiped here in 11C.

Since then, Amanawa jinja had been deeply related to the Genji clan. Yoshiie and Yoritomo repaired the shrine hall and built Torii gate those days.

* House of the Nobel prize writer Yasunari Kawabata 川端康成 (1899-1972) is right next to the shirine.

*Comments by stores

I like Amanawa jinja that is a quiet and simple as the oldest shrine around here. That shrine and Kamakura city go well together.

Kamakura's shrines and temples are all simple compared with those in Kyoto and other popular tourist cities in Japan. I think it should come from the history that Kamakura was built by the Bushi, ancient warriors.

Kamakura's warriors were still simple and vigorous even after they gained their political power. That contrasts much with the other warrior-clan Heike which became like the noble people in the Heian period.

by Kozan

(English tea)

As for the shrine, I think that Amanawa jinja is good to visit. That is the oldest shrine in Kamakura called "Shinmei sama" by some locals.

It's located on a hill in Hase and view from the shrine is nice. Amanawa jinja is the Chinju, a local Shinto deity who guards the neighborhood, of Hase area.

by Bar Magokoro

(Bar)

The oldest shrine in Kamakura which was founded before Kamakura Shogunate. It is said that Yoritomo Minamoto, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate revered it.

It's also said that Yasunari Kawabata liked sitting on the stone stairways spending a relax time. This shrine worships Amaterasu-Oo-Mikami (the sun Goddess).

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Yasunari Kawabata (1899-1972) is a Japanese novelist. He was awarded the Nobel Prize 1968 for his narrative mastery, which with great sensibility expresses the essence of the Japanese mind. Moving several times in Kamakura, he lived at Hase in his last years and fortunately he was one of our regular customers those days.

His residence is introduced as Kawabata Foundation or Kawabata Residence on many web-maps, but it is not open to the public unless specified for the special case. What we can do is just to see quietly its outside gate and feel the peaceful atmosphere there. If you visit Amanawa shrine, look to the left from the entrance of the shrine.

Founded in 13C by Masako Hojo 北条政子 under the name of Chorakuji 長楽寺 at the different place in Kamakura in the beginning.

She had Gangyo 願行, a buddhist priest open that temple for her husband, Shogun Yoritomo's rest in peace.

After several incidents like burn-down and being combined with another temple, that temple was rebuilt as Anyoin at the current place.

"Anyoin" is Masako's Buddhist name and the temple's official name was Gionzan Anyoin Tashiro Temple 祇園山安養院田代寺. Tashiro was a Samurai who worked for Shogun Yoritomo. His Kannon-statue was moved into the Buddhist hall in the gounds of Anyoin when that temple was re-built. That was the reason for its long name.

* Anyoin is also well known as a place of lots of Azalea blooming at the end of spring.

I like the views of sunrise and sunset seeing from Yuigahama Beach. Both scenes are very beautiful.

Also, I participate in some events of the kite-flying, and the first ship on the New Year's Day, both of which are held on that beach.

by Kozan

(English tea)

Yuigahama

Yuigahama is well known for walking on the beach and Umi no Ie (seasonal beach-houses). What I also like there is the superb view when the sky is clear. Oshima Island seen far in the daytime, sunrise over Miura 三浦, and sunset backside of the mountains at Inamuragasaki are all beautiful.

by Ushio

(Lodging & Eatery)

Inamuragasaki

Inamuragasaki is a famous cape as the stage of the history of the Kamakura period. It's characterized by rocks and the black sand, and also popular among surfers for the good waves.

Besides those features, the best charm of this cape is I think the ocean view with Mt. Fuji and sunset in the back, which is a magnificent scenery.

by Ushio

(Lodging & Eatery)

Inamuragasaki

This seaside park is popular as a sunset viewing point with Enoshima Island, but I would like to recommend to spend a relaxing time on the lawn under the sunlight in the daytime, too. Besides Enoshima, Mt. Fuji can be seen nicely when the sky is clear.

There is a shade of trees which are properly planted. A public lavatory separately for men and ladies and water service are also available in the park.

by JAMES & CO.

(Apparel & Bike Rentals)

Yuigahama

I live in Zushi, a city next to Kamakura. Zushi is also a seaside city. So, the place I like the most in Kamakura is beach before any other tourist spots like temples or shrines.

My recommendation is to have a drink while watching the sunset.

by Daisy's Cafe

(Creative cuisine )

Zaimokuza

There is the oldest existing man-made port called Wakaejima Island 和賀江島. Unfortunately, many stones have collapsed and we can only see that when the tide becomes low.

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It's said that many ships loaded with the construction materials and some trade vessels from China stayed there in Kjamakura period.

We can walk to Zushi city soon from Zaimokuza, where we can buy fish at the fishing port and find good seafood eateries.

by Tsukui

(Okonomi yaki)

Yuigahama

There is Yuigigahama in front of Bar Magokoro. Fishing boats stay on the beach and go out from there, which is a Yuigahama-like view.

At the time of opening our bar in the evening, sun-set scenery is nice, especially Kamakura fire works in July is unparalleled.

by Bar Magokoro

(Bar)

Shichirigahama

Coming up to Shichirigahama, Enoshima looks near and larger. I think the view from here is the best panoramic view in Kamakura, while the scenery of Enoshima and Mt. Fuji from Inamuragasaki is also famous.

We can see Mt. Fuji in the back often in winter and sometimes in summer when the sky is cleart with low humidity.

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Particularly, the sunset scenery is much picturesque . You could see it from the terrace of MOANA MAKIA's restaurant. From the 1st Sangosho, enjoy a short walk to the beach after a meal for the view.

Shichirigahama shore goes abruptly deeper and waves rise higher soon. So it's a good surfing ground instead of for swimming.

It is said that Kamakura sightseeing boom began in the Edo peroid. Travelers of that time came on foot along this long shoreline from Enoshima, across Koshigoe 腰越, and went to Kamakura.

Koshigoe is the east end of this beach where Koyurugi jinja 小動神社 stands since 12C.

by Sangosho

(Curry, Steak)

Shichirigahama& Inamuragasaki

The shoreline from Shichirigahama to the Inamuragasaki is a well-known travel route since the ancient times.

However, that had been not so popular before Gokurakuji cut road was built in the early Kamakura period because it was dangerous to go around Inamuragasaki cliff and many travelers went through Kewaizaka cut road via the current Fujisawa area.

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Once Gokurakuji cut road was opened, it became popular to walk along Shichirigahama shore up to Inamuragasaki and enter the cut road through the mountain for Kamakura.

On the other hand, there is the famous legend that the anti-Shogunate troops rushed into Kamakura by taking the dangerous Inamuragasaki cliff route as a surprise attack.

Ocean view with Enoshima from the beach here is really nice. I think the scenery at sunset is the best.

by WAHINE

(Asian cuisine)

Inamuragasaki

This cape is famous for some historical episodes and said that Inamuragasaki is the West border of Kamakura those days.

It's not good for sea bathing because of sudden drop-off and rocks, but the best surfing point in the typhoon season.

Inamura Classic Invitation, a big surfing competition is held once in several years.

Before anything, I believe that the best ocean view in Kamakura should be from Inamuragasaki.

by RONDINO

(Italian restaurant)

Sakanoshita

Our house is located in front of Sakanoshita Beach and you will see a park there. It would be nice either to walk on the beach or to relax on the lawn of the park.

Walking a little to the west, Inamuragasaki is there. It's well know as a superb view point and a good surfing ground. Inamuragasaki is also a historical spot where the story of Kamakura Shogunate-overturn started. We would like you to enjoy a time around the beach.

by SAIRAM

(Vegan food)

Yuigahama

Here's another view of the summer bridge across Nameri-gawa. Everyone says it looks like something from the Meiji era, but it was really done in 1998.

by Peter Miller

(Artist, Photogravure Etchings)

Inamuragasaki

We must recommend the ocean view at the Inamuragasaki park before anything, especially at sun set. We believe that it's the best view in Kamakura.

The park there is close to our house. Our customers leisurely spend time there when our seats are fully occupied and we ask them to wait for a turn.

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That cape is famous as a historical spot but it's the place where we can enjoy our times, too. For example, Inamura's beach is one of the most famous surfing grounds and a well-known competition is held when the big waves come.

It's not regular event and we have not seen it since the last time in 2013. No body knows if it's held this year.

by yoridocoro

(Japanese eatery)

Yuigahama

Many food stalls are temporary built on the beach in the summer that are very busy with visitors. And fireworks display here, on July 20th this year, is worth seeing because they are set off from some boats on the sea. Both mountains and the ocean are in a walk distance. That is a charm of Kamakura.

by Mu Shin An

(Japanese sweets cafe)

Wakae Island 和賀江島

This is the oldest man-made port in existing in Japan. It was built in 1232 with the support of Kamakura Shogunate.

The building-materials such as stones and lumber were shipped to this port until the end of Edo period. Gokuraku-ji Temple managed this facility those days.

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The port island was made by piling up the stones, but unfortunately most of them are under the water these days because of the natural destruction by the wave and wind. Stone poles to moor the vessels stood but had already disappeared, too.

Even so, we can see many stones in this place at low tide especially in the spring tide, as we think back to the time when this ancient port was actually used. Zaimokuza, the current name of the address, means "lumberyard".

Merchant vessels from Sung dynasty in China came to this port. They threw the damaged pottery into the sea when discharging.

Almost perfect-condition pots of celadon porcelain were found around there until 50 - 60 years ago.

We can still pick the small broken pieces of them which have spread over the Yuigahama and Zaimokuza beach. Most of them are not so old and would have no value even if they are the celadon porcetain pieces. However, they would be nice as a commemorative items of Kamakura.

by Nakayama Touken

(Antique Samurai gear)

I know that temples, shrines and other tourist spots in Kamakura are on the good walk route. However, I really want to recommend visitors to relax on the beach instead of being busy with the sight seeing here and there. So, the regular tourist spots aside, let me introduce about the Kamakura beaches.

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Morning:

When the sky is clear, it is a really good-feel to be on the beach. You could see Ooshima island far away from Yuigahama Beach and enjoy the picturesque scenery of Enoshima island with Mt. Fuji in the back at the next beach, Inamuragasaki. It would be a good picture of your commemoration of Kamakura visit.

Also you could see some seabirds floating on the water and fishermen start their boats from the beach.

Day:

In the summer, Food Courts are temporarily built and a variety of restaurants join in. Many people gather in that season and very busy atmosphere during that period. However, it is always calm, not so many people in the other seasons and you could enjoy a relax time sitting or walking on the beach.

Night:

You would find the best atmosphere at the time of sun-set before it becomes so dark. Each store or house along the coastal road is lighting and the scene of the ocean and the coastal road becomes very romantic. I strongly recommend it.

by Good Mellows

(Hamburgers)

<Black Kike>:

You had better refrain from eating anything in the open space on the beach or seaside park because the black kites might attack you.

Usually they don't attack the people but it is dangerous because they dive at the food on your hands. Mostly they come from behind you. So, if you sit eating with your back against the wall or building, it would be much better. The best is at the place having the roof like a terrace.

by Good Mellows

(Hamburgers)

Inamuragasaki

Going to the right (west) from Gokuraku-ji station, Inamuragasaki beach and its beach park will appear.

Beach sand there is dark, almost black because it contains a lot of iron sand. Beach itself does not look so beautiful, but the ocean view with the Mr. Fuji in the back is picturesque.

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And the best waves come to that point in the Typhoon season (usually Sep.). We are looking forward to Inamura Classic Invitation, a big surfing competition which is held once in several years. In some cases, we need to wait for more than ten years.

by Halenova

(Donuts shop)

The ocean is great. We are receiving a lot of natural blessings. Not only for the food ingredients, but we feel the healing power when just relaxing on the beach as well.

And...we enloy many kinds of marine sports there.

by Magokoro

(Natural foods)

Inamuragasaki

A big surfing competition called Inamura Classic Invitational is held only when the big waves are coming and always very short noticed. The latest one was held in 2013 and it was the first time in the last 24 years.

I took these pictures of the riders at the 2013 competition. Inamura is the next beach from here.

by Jepun

(Jewelry)

Yuigahama

We feel happy thinking about that Hawaii and California are over this ocean. However good waves and high wind do not come to this place so often unfortunately. So, we are very exited when we feel them coming close.

by Seedless bar

(American restaurant)

Yuigahama

We had run our prior restaurant near Hachiman Shrine. From that point, it was only 15 minutes to the beach. But from here, it's only 3 minutes.

This difference is unexpectedly big. We feel the sea breeze and see many surfers and fishermen always around here. Yuigahama is a really seaside district.

by Feng Long

(Chinese eatery)

Yuigahama

Temporary food courts are built on the beach in July and August every year. Restaurants, Bars, Music live houses appear in this period, then disappear at the beginning of September.

Activities like surfing and a peaceful walk are for all seasons.

by Il Birraio

(Italian restaurant)

Yuigahama

The Kamakura beach kindly has the local people and vsitors enjoy surfing, and wind-surf. I do it, too. Moreover, it makes us feel calm in mind when we just see it especially at sun set.

This museum used to be a villa of Maeda family 前田家 that had been a big Bushi family in Kaga 加賀 in the North since 16C.

At the time of Meiji Era, Kaga Maeda family was given the title of Marquis.

The 16th head of the family, Toshinari Maeda 前田利為 built a house around 1890.

After some remodeling every time it's collapsed due to the fire and the Kanto's Great Earth Quake, that building was completed as a lovely Western-style residence with large garden.

Later, former Japanese prime minister, Eisaku Sato 佐藤栄作 used that house as his villa for a while.

It was donated to Kamakura City in 1983 and has been opened to the public as the museum since 1985.

That classic house is a Registered Tangible Cultural Properties of Japan, which is representing the villa-architecture in Kamakura.

= info. =

-Holiday: Monday

(Open if Monday is National Holiday)

-9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Mar. to Sep.)

-9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Oct. to Feb.)

* Last entry is 30 min. before the closing time.

- Fee 300 - 400 yen

* Depending on the ehxibition.

* Discount for group,child etc.

*Comments by stores

It was built in 1890 as a 2nd house of a Marquis coming from a long distinguished Samurai family from the ancient times.

Being reconstructed due to the collapse in the Great Kanto Earthquake (1923) and rebuilt into the modern style in 1936, it is now opened as a museum of literature.

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Unfortunately almost all exhibitions are written only in Japanese, but we hope that it would be enjoyable just to see the old Japanese big house, garden, and the photos of the novelists and the scenery of Kamakura those days. Actually, many Japanese visitors enjoy this place in that way.

by Tsuruya

(Grilled eel dishes)

This was originally the second house of Marquis Maeda of a distinguished family since the age of Bushi and/or Samurai. Then it is a museum of literature now.

by KOKE-SHKA

(Japanese craft KOKESHI)

Bungaku kan was built over 100 years ago by a Marquis coming from one of the most distinguished Japanese families. It is now the museum of literature.

Many items related to Japanese literature are exhibited. Its exterior, interior, and garden are worth seeing.

by Namihei

(Japanese Taiyaki cake)

It was built by a long-established family. Later, a Prime minister used it for a certain period in the Showa period. So, we can feel the life of the old rich people from the atmosphere of its garden and buildings.

Now it's open to the public as a museum of Japanese literature.

by Akaneya

(Japanese foods)

There are two famous museums near here. Bungakukan is open in all seasons. But Yoshiya Nobuko Memorial is open to the public for the limited period only.

Both buildings show the atmospher of, how to say it,,,,like the old-modernizing Japan.

by HANABI

(Japanese Ramen house)

Old local story

Our location in Kamakura has a long history dating back to the 1880’s. At that time, our store delivered MIZUAME (a kind of candy / Japanese starch syrup) to the Maeda family.

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The Maeda family was one of the most distinguished families from the time of the sixteenth-century, and they liked to visitt their second house in Kamakura in those days. Their second home in Kamakura is now open to the public as the Bungaku-kan museum.

When our store opened, CHIKARAMOCHI YA had already existed here and our family has been friends for generations. This is the history that I learned from the previous owner at this site.

He was a military-aristocracy called Bushi at the time of Kamakura Shogunate-Fall, then became the first Shogun of the Muromachi Bakufu in Kyoto.

This temple was founded in his residential site here in Kitakamakura.

After the death of Takauji, his son Motouji built the main hall to pray for the rest in peace of Takauji's spirit.

Its Buddhist hall in the temple's grounds was converted from the Enjoji Temple in the current Nara Pref.

* This temple is seasonally opened to the public: Fri.-Sun. and national holidays in Apr. May. Jun. Oct. Nov. But we can see it's beautiful garden over the short gate from the street out of those opening times.

* Ajisai hydrangea in Jun. and autumun leaves in Nov. are very nice every year.

Foundation is said to be in the early Kamakura period, 12C under the name with different Kanji characters of 大"行"寺.

Yoritomo Minamoto 源頼朝 won in a battle after a war council at that temple. Then he changed its name using the letter of 巧 that meant "good job" and "effectiveness" in the middle of Dai-gyo-ji.

Times had changed to the end of the Muromachi period, 16C. Nitto 日棟, the chief priest of that temple offered a Sutra chanting to the soul of a lady who had lost her life due to the difficult delivery. She could rest in peace thanks to his act.

Since then, Daigyoji has kept the Pagoda of Childbirth which is said to protect women from the suffering of childbirth.

That pagoda itself is not exposed to the public, but many people visit Daigyoji to have charms and amulets for safe delivery, and to ask the Buddhist priest to keep praying in the Buddhist manners until their expected date of delivery.

That temple is also called "Onme-sama" and is as popular as Suitengu 水天宮 in Tokyo, which is the shrine for safe delivery.

*Comments by stores

Daigyoji is one of the oldest temples founded before the Kamakura Shogunate. Minamoto Yoritomo could win a battle after he held a war-council at this temple.

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Later, in the 16th century, a local lore spread and Daigyoji became more popular as the temple where people visited to pray for the safe childbirth and came to be called "Onme sama".

It's said that a lady who died of difficult delivery could rest in peace after a monk met her soul near this temple and chanted a sutra to her. She came down to this world after a few days and promised him saying "I will give the safe delivery for ladies if you place a pagoda and keep praying for me." Surely, he did it.

This temple has a small stone-made container called "Pagoda of the birthing woman ghost". We can see only its picture on Daigyoji's web site.

Founder was Okaji お梶の方 who was a lady-descendant of the builder of Edo Castle and worked as an attendant for the first Edo Shogun, Ieyasu Tokugawa.

She built a nunnery temple on the site of the mansion of her family, which was given by the 3rd Shogun Iemitsu Tokugawa.

Somehow, when she accompanied Tokugawa into battle, Tokugawa side won. Then she came to be called Okatsu (お勝, lady of victory) and was given the Buddhist name of Eisho-In. It was the reason for the name of the temple Eisho-ji.

After Eisho-in Okatsu, generations of daughters from the Mito Tokugawa clan subsequently served as the head nun of Eishoji.

In this way, the temple that had atmoshpere as a mansion of Samurai came to be a highly ranked temple in the Edo period.

Its main hall, a sub hall, and a bell tower are all original architecture built in the Edo period. Eishoji is a rare example of the remaining temple as it was founded those days.

One of the most prestigious temples, which is ranked 2nd in the Kamakura Major Five Zen-Temples and is the H/Q of Rinzai Shu Engakuji Sect.

Many sub-temple-halls stand in its grounds. Engakuji is also well known for the flowers, autumn leaves, and Zen meditation class for the public.

== History ==

After the wars with the Mongol Empire who attacked Japan from the Chinese continent twice in 13C, the Regent Hojo invited a Zen priest named Mugaku Sogen 無学祖元 from China and had him build a temple to mourn the dead Samurai warriors and also the Mongorian soldiers.

During the construction, a Sutra book "Engaku Kyo" in a stone-box was excavated and the temple was named after that book.

In the 14th century, this temple's ground was was expanded and forty two sub-temples called Tachu 塔頭 were built, while it was only three in the beginning.

* The temple grounds are designated as a National Historic Site.

* Their hanging bell, which is a National Treasure, was counted as The Kamakura Three Bells along with Kenchoji and Jorakuji.

== Sub temples==

* Kigenin帰源院 mourns a priest who managed Daikeiji and Jochiji in addition to Engakuji.

Soseki Natsume (夏目漱石, a famous novelist in 19-20C) stayed there for meditation and worship in 1894. That experience is described in his work of "Mon 門".

* Shouzokuin正続院 is usually closed and is opened to the public exceptionally in the temple's yearly events. On those event-days, we can come close to Shariden Hall (舎利殿, a hall which houses a relic or bone of the Buddha) that is designated as a national treasure.

* Kojirin居士林 is now a place for Zen meditation training. It was built as a Kendo Dojo （剣道場, a training center for swordsman) of Yagyu style.

* There are more sub halls each of which has history, ancient belongings, and episodes related to writers and other famous people.

*Comments by stores

As for the temple, I like temples in Kitakamakura. Especially, it's recommended to go to Engakuji and Meigetsuin.

Temples in Kitakamakura have heavy atmosphere and well represent the capital of Bushi 武士 and Zen temples 禅寺. Among them, I like Engakuji because of its dignity and many sub halls called Tachu 塔頭. Each Tachu hall has unique episode like a place where the famous novelist Soseki Natsume 夏目漱石 stayed for example.

I would like to recommend you to take a slow walk around the large grounds while seeing those spots as well as the magnificent main Buddhist hall.

by albicocca.

(Italian cafe)

Founded in 1282, Koan 5 in Japanese year, by the 8th Regent Tokimune Hojo 北条時宗. Opening Buddhist priest was Mugaku Sogen (無学祖元, also called Bukkoh Kokushi 仏光国師) who was invited from Song dynasty, China.

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It was originally built in order to mourn dead soldiers when the Mongol Empire attacked Japan twice in 13C. It's said that not only Japanese Bushi warriors but Mongolian soldiers were mourned as well.

There are many sub temple halls called Tachu 塔頭 in the grounds each of which has some interesting episodes and valuable cultural assets. It's recommended to take your time walking around in Engakuji's large grounds.

by Hachinoki

(Japanese restaurant)

Backing times to 1282, the Regent Tokimune Hojo 執権 北条時宗 invited a ZEN master form Sung Dynasty, ancient China and had him open the Zen temple that was Engaku-ji.

It is a high prestige temple, that means, the second place in the Kamakura Five Zen temples, but I like it the best.

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They have large grounds as other big Zen temples do and there are many Tachu (塔頭, sub-temple). We can say that Engaku-ji is a temple-village. You had better take time, minimum one hour if possible, to stroll while seeing their sub-temples. Quick sight seeing would not be good there.

Their hanging-bell is designated as a national treasure. You could feel an indescribable taste from that. (Don't ring it.)

*There is a small hanging-bell at the side of the building seen in front from the main entrance, but the famous bell of the national treasure is placed alone at the end of the slope on the right.

It is said that an old monk built a thatched cottage and placed Amitabha statue in the current Fukazawa area (深沢, about 4 Km north). He named that cottage Gokurakuji. Gokuraku 極楽 meant "Heaven".

When he died, a priest named Ninsho 忍性 was invited as the opening priest of Gokurakuji Temple. Ninsho was a Bddhist discipline who learned Buddhism under the Priest Eison of Sendaiji in Nara Pref.

Ninsho additionally built several houses in the temple grounds and worked on welfare projects to relieve unfortunate people.

He was much respected by people as he was called Buddhist doctor and that temple prospered to a large extent in the Kamakura period.

When Mongol tried to invade Japan, Buddhist ceremony was performed here to make that foreign country surrender.

They also managed Wakaejima Island, the ancient man-made port at Zaimokuza, and Gokurakuji cut road.

Even after the Kamakura Shogunate was overthrown, Gokurakuji could keep the high rank as the place for peace and stability of the country thanks to the Imperial support.

Some old paintings show the large scale of the Gokurakuji's grounds that used to be surrounded by many sub halls and medical facilities like a big hospital.

It is now a smaller scaled but still popular as a very lovely temple that is known for the beautiful flowers at the gate and Cherry blossoms along the approach.

* Enter through the right door and exit through the door on the other side. Center of the temple gate is not open with some exceptional cases.

* Photographing inside the gate is prohibited even at the exterior scenes.

*Comments by stores

Gokuraku means "Heaven". I heard that this temple was moved to the current place that had been called Jigooku Dani (valley of hell) in the Kamakura era. I assume that they tried to develop a Heaven-like place here.

By the way, You will find a woody house across the street from Gokuraku-ji which is one of the 24 Kamakura JIizo Bosatsu (a stone guardian).

Jizo were very popular among the common people in the old days and offered with the snacks.

by Halenova

(Donuts shop)

This is one of the most famous temples in Kamakura. The station was named from this. Walking round over the red bridge near the station, you will find it soon.

It is said to be founded in the late Heian period (平安時代, Times of Kyoto capital in 8C - 12C).

An old stone post at a T-cross on the Gokurakuji zaka street shows that Goryo jinja and Hasedera have been the popular worship places since the ancient times.

It had originally been written as "五"霊神社 ("Five" souls) because it had enshrined the five Heishi families.

Then the shrine came to enshrine Gongoro Kagemasa 権五郎景政 who was a Kamakura Samurai renown for his bravery. Meanwhile, Goryo was written as Kamakura Gongoro Jinja 鎌倉権五郎神社 and also "御"霊神社 ("The" soul).

There are some Kagemasa related things in the grounds, such as some stones used in the contest of strength and an old tree trunk against which Kagemasa put his bow placed.

The Menkake Procession (面掛行列, march of people with a mask on their faces) is held on Sep. 18th every year, which is a highly original ritual of the shrine. It's the day when Kagemasa passed away.

It's Torii gate is famous as a filming point, too. Enoden train runs right at the Torii gate. Movies and TV dramas use that point.

*Comments by stores

Not only out-of-town visitors, nearby residents visit this shrine as well. It is dedicated to a Kamakura samurai and is called Gongoro Jinja after his name.

Goryo Jinja is a lovely shrine with a lot of ancient stories, while it's now famous as a filming spot.

by SAIRAM

(Vegan eatery)

This shrine also has an old story related to a Kamakura Samurai, that is Gongoro. I would like recommend the walking route from Kosoku-ji to the side-entrance of Goryo-jinja.

It goes a small, quiet alley from which we can see the top of Hasedera temple's roof. I hope that you could feel the ancient Kamakura while walking along this route.

by kuriyum

(Thai restauratn)

Amanawa Jinja (Shinmei sama) and Goryo Jinja (Gongoro Jinja) are both recommendable. If you go toward Hase station, it would be convenient to visit Amanawa shrine.

If you want to enjoy a walk to the beach or Gokurakuji area, it would be Goryo shrine because it's on the way.

by Ishiwata Genzaburo Shoten

(Japanese dry foods)

I was impressed when I first saw the Enoden trains running at the entrance of this shrine. Also I found that it had a long and honorable history.

We often visit it. I learnt that a strong samurai named Gongoro is offered.

by Marugyuu

(Japanese beef BBQ)

This shrine is near and our family has a close relationship for 300 years fortunately. Gongoro Kagemasa probably enjoys watching the contest of strength in the past and Enoden trains running through now, from high up in the sky.

Goryo shrine has the old Japanese masks which are registered as the Kamakura cultural heritage. Each of our Fukumen Manju has the face of them and the Kamakura locals enjoy marching along the street wearing the copy of the masks at the yearly festival.

by CHIKARAMOCHI YA

(Japanese rice cake)

Kamakura Samurai history

A Kamakura Samurai named Gongoro Kagemasa became famous for his brave actions and success in the battles of 1083-1087 in Tohoku (the northern region of Japan).

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He was just 16 years old at that time but already very strong. When his troops returned in triumph they began a contest of strength using 60-kilo, 100-kilo stones here in Sakanoshita. They all admired Gongoro's strength.

Later who knows when, these stones were placed at Goryo shrine and some rice cakes were put on the stones for offering to Gongoro. Those cakes were also delivered to the worshipers and came to be called Gongoro's Chikaramochi.

Long later but still a long time ago, our ancestor started making the house-brand cake named CHIKARAMOCHI so that people would keep in mind the brave samurai, Gongoro Kagemasa for the future. Those stones are exhibited at Goryo shrine even now.

by CHIKARAMOCHI YA

(Japanese rice cake)

This shrine is well known for its history and nearest from Jepun. Go straight toward the opposite direction to the beach and turn right at the cross where a woody-building old store stands, you will find it from there on. The entrance is sometimes filmed for the TV series.

by Jepun

(Jewelry)

Goryo Jinja is the nearest historical spot from here. I prayed for my success when I opened Ichigeya. Pay attention to the crossing gate at the entrance because Enoden railroad cars go there.

We have the two different ways to call this shrine, one is Goryo (御霊)、and the other is Gongoro(権五郎) in the long flow of the history. Official name these days is Goryo shrine.

by ichigeya

(Japanese Cafe)

This shrine is famous because Enoden train runs right at the entrance. It was said that Goryo shrine was built to deify the five families in this area long time ago.

Later it enshrined only Gongoro Kagemasa, a bravery samurai in 11-century. A portable shrine comes out of here at the time of yearly festival these days.

Founder and the year of foundation of Kotoku in are unknown. It must be a little after their sect of the Jodo sect 浄土宗 was opened by Honen in 1175.

The first great Buddha was a wood statue made in the early 13C. After it was fell down in a big typhoon, Bronze Great Buddha was made in the latter half of 13C.

He is 13 m (42.5ft) tall and 120 metric ton, that was built by the most advanced technique those days.

He sit in a house first, but the hall was washed away by Tsunami (津波, tidal waves) in 15C.

The Great Buddha of Kamakura is said to be built by collecting donation from the public, while that of Nara was built as a National project by the Imperial order.

The statue is designated as a National treasure and its grounds are also a National Historic Site for the traces of the big hall and some grooves showing the making process of the huge statue.

That good looking Daibutsu is a symbol of Kamakura who has been loved by Kamakura locals and visitors from all over the world.

(Exceptional Lion statue)

Kotoku in 高徳院 places a pair of lion statues both of which open their mouths, whicha are not Komainu-guardians. They were donated from overseas. If you are there, see them as a commemoration of an international friendship.

*Comments by stores

Symbol of Kamakura, the Great Buddha, with its classic proportions and calm expression, has entranced foreign visitors since the 1600s.

by Peter Miller

(Artist, Photogravure Etchings)

Seeing Daibutsu (The Great Buddha) is an enjoyment and it's recommendable to the visitors. We are proud of it as a symbol of Kamakura. And I like the calm atmosphere around Kotoku-in.

A stroll along the quiet street one block inside would be a good choice to enjoy Kamakura sightseeing.

by KEBAB

(Turkish food stand)

The Great Buddha is a representative of Kamakura. We want Kamakura tourists to visit him. The great statue is designated a national treasure and said as a good looking man.

It is amazing that such a big statue was built without any construction machinery.

by Kaseiro

(Chinese restaurant)

He is a symbol of Hase and also of Kamakura. Big Tsunami that grew higher and higher because of the landform around there washed away his house a long time ago.

He is described as a handsome man in a traditional Japanese poem.

by Nakayama Touken

(Antique Samurai gear)

We have a close relationship with this temple. Our Senbei is allowed to be shaped into The Great Buddha and many visitors come to our store on the way to this temple.

The Great Buddha is the representative of Kamakura. We would like you to visit him.

by Ebisuya

(Jp rice cake)

The Great Buddha of Kamakura sits still outside. Therefore, you will see his different looks in each season and weather.

by Il Birraio

(Italian restaurant)

Besides seeing the great statue's external appearance, it's interesting to have some information about him at Kotoku temple. Taking a walk at the back side, you would see the very silent townscape.

One of the most popular visiting spots in Kamakura, well know for the giant Kannon statue and the beautiful garden full of flowers in every season such as hydrangea in July.

Their main Buddhist statue, the Kannon Bosatsu with 11 faces 十一面観音菩薩, is 9.18 m (30ft) tall, which is one of the tallest wooden Buddhist statues in Japan.

That statue appears in a historical story that introduces Kamakura's Hasedera as one of the oldest temples in Kamakura.

That legend says that two eleven headed statues were made out of one block of camphor in the current Nara Pref. in the early 8C.

One statue was placed at Nara Hasedera as its main statue and the other one was carried away to the sea with a prayer that would reappear to save the people somewhere.

15 years later, that statue washed ashore on the beach in Miura Peninsula and was brought to Kamakura to be placed in a newly built temple to honor it.

That is the origin of Kamakura's Hasedera Temple.

*Comments by stores

There are lots of nice temples in the city, many of which were founded in the Kamakura period (12C-14C).

Hasedera Temple is one of the oldest temples, being opened in the 8th century.

I like Hasedera very much because it has a bright-feel in the seaside area.

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You will find a tunnel in their grounds where you could feel a explore-like atmosphere. Many statues can be seen in there. Watch your head not to strike it against the ceiling.

Hasedera cafe in the garden offers soft drinks and some light dishes. Temple's curry is a popular and recommendable menu.

by CASA.

(Coffee shop)

If you walk a little farther on, another good temple that is Hase Kannon (Hasedera Temple) is there. It's also a nice place to see.

You would be impressed by their beautiful garden, buildings and the cute Jizo. Then you are already near Yuigahama beach.

by KEBAB

(Turkish food stand)

This temple is also recommendable because visitors could enjoy walking around in the large garden that was developed in a mountain.

They sell Omikuji (random fortune paper) with some English translation. (Detail is written in Japanese but the summary in English is also shown.)

by Kaseiro

(Chinese Restaurant)

Their statue of Goddess of Mercy called HASE KANNON that has the eleven faces is famous. Fortunately we are allowed to make our Senbei shaped into it as well as The Great Buddha. There is a good point for photograph of the Kamakura townscape because Hasedera is built in the middle of a mountain. Ocean view from there is also nice when the sky is clear.

by Ebisuya

(Jp rice cake)

I think it should be Hase-dera after vising Goyro-shrine. Take the exit of Goryo shrine at a side instead of the front gate, you will see just the top of Hasedera's roof.

You might feel anxious about getting lost because the lane is quiet. But don't worry, you will hit the main street going to the Hase station soon. Then, turn left for Hasedera.

by Jepun

(Jewelry)

Go along the route 134 toward Inamura beach and take the right at a fork. Then, turn to the right for Hase station. This temple is worth seeing because it has a beautiful garden.

There are three cute Jizo there. When you see other statues in a tunnel in their garden, watch your head where the ceiling is low.

by Seedless bar

(American restaurant)

Their statues and buildings have very traditional appearance and atmosphere. You will see a beautiful garden full of flowers and three cute statues called Nagomi Jizo.

by Il Birraio

(Italian restaurant)

Beautiful temple is Hasedera having a wide and up-down garden full of flowers. The light up, their yearly event in Nov., is wonderful.

One of our eigbors says "Kamakura can be said as a miniature garden where so many temples and shrines are placed close together. It's also surrounded by mountains like a external wall and the ocean spreads on a side as it looks the private beach. It's a fun to walk around such a tiny place".

= Notes on Kamakura Hiking =

* Be sure to get out before it gets dark.

- There are some spots where a side or both sides of the walk path fall sharply. Some spots have the hand rail, but the others do not, so it's dangerous to walk in the dark.

* Wear sneakers, preferably hiking-boots.

- Even if the road surface is dry as the whole, the lower places which usually run along a stream are likely to be wet with mud.

- Even if the weather is nice, the road surface must be muddy if there is a rainy day in the past few days. Hiking-boots are much preferable. Sneakers are not good enough in that case.

*Comments by stores

Daibutsu Old Cut Road

Mountain hiking is also recommended. I think Daibutsu Old Cut Road from near the Great Buddha is the best among the various hiking routes in Kamakura.

It's said that Daibutsu old cut road was the gateway to Fujisawa and farther Kyoto in the Kamakura period. We can see some old Yagura caves on that mountain trail.

by Kozan

(English tea)

Stroll for the wide view

I can say that walking is one of the most recommended ways to enjoy Kamakura visit. Especially, my favorite route is a stroll to some viewing spots along the Kinubari yama Hiking Trail.

The nearest point among them is located in the Highland area that we can reach about 15 minutes from Omachi on foot. Mt. Fuji can be seen when the sky is clear.

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If we want to walk longer, we can go to Nagoe Hiking Trail in the south, or Sugimotodera and Houkokuji area near the north end of Kinubari Yama Hiking Trail.

There is a nice panorama viewing platform on the way to Nagoe course.

Going toward Sugimotodera, other wide viewing spots are also found along the Kinubari Yama course.

* Kinubari Yama 布張山：

Kanji letters mean "Mountain covered by the cloths", and it's pronounced like "Mountain covered by the silk".

This name came from a legend that Yoritomo Minamoto, the 1st Kamakura Shogun, covered that mountain with the white cloth on a hot summer day so that he could enjoy the cool view as if snow had covered the mountain.

by THE BANK

(Bar)

Walk in the city

What I like and want to recommend in Kamakura is a relaxing walk. I often go to a Starbucks Coffee near the Kamakura City Hall after walking in various ways.

That is a special one as Starbucks shops because we can enjoy coffee while seeing the large garden. That place was originally the residence of a Japanese famous cartoon writer. The coffee shop stands on that site now.

by Meggendorfer

(POP-UP picture books)

Ten-en Hiking

I like walking around in Kamakura. Especially, it's recommended to to go to Ten-en rest stop in the Ten-en Hiking Trail. Panorama view from the peak of the hill near the rest-stop is always nice.

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When you take an entrance at Zuisenji, it is a fun to see Kaibuki Jizo on the way. If you go there in the season of autumn leaves, Shishimai route where you can find the nice autumn colors is also recommendable. Watch your steps at some slippery points in either route.

If you don't like the mountain hike, you will be able to enjoy a walk along a quiet lane from behind Hokaiji Temple and a little before the Toshoji-site toward Omachi area. You will go through a narrow and long tunnel. I enjoy that stroll sometimes. It's narrow and up-down street, but paved.

by Bergfeld

(Bakery & Cafe)

Kobukuro zaka

(Old road but not the mountain hike)

Good places in Kamakura change variously depending on the season and the weather. Shrines and temples rich in individuality are located very close like several minute walk each.

Therefore it's difficult to identify one place as the recommended spot. Walking around the city while visiting those places is the fun of Kamakura visit.

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So, let us show you Kobukuro Zaka cut road as our most neighboring historical place. Kamakura is surrounded by mountains and the sea like the a natural fortress, and people in the Kamakura period did not have other options than taking the Seven Entrances made by cutting the mountains.

Kobukuro Zaka cut road was one of those entrances and was an important road connecting the central part around Tsurugaoka Hachimangu and Kita Kamakura where Kenchoji, Engakuji and other temples were built.

R-21 is also called Kobukuro Zaka that we use now, but the original Kobukuro Zaka in the Kamakura period was built a little south.

We can't get to Kikakamakura through that original road anymore due to the dead end, but Oume Seiten Sha and some monuments stand as they did those days.

* Ome Seiten Sha 青梅聖天社: An old shrine standing quietly on the Kobukuro zaka old cut road. One day in the Kamakura period, Shogun got badly sick. He requested for the blue plum (青梅, Japanese greengage), but it was not in plum season. Searchigng for plum hear and there, some blue plum were finally found at that shrine.

He got better after eating that. This is a lore that shows how the shrine was named. Statue worshiped at that shrine is now designated one of the Kamakura cultural property.

by Yuu Fuu Tei

(Matcha Cafe)

Gion yama

I like doing outdoor activities on my days off from work and often go to Kamakura hiking trails. Among several courses, Gionyama is recommendable because it's short and easy to access from the center of the city.

That hiking trail is so Kamakura as we enter from a shrine (Yagumo jinja) and exit at a temple's ruins (Toshoji site).

Although it's just 20 minute walk route, you can enjoy a view of Kamakura city and the sea from the Panorama Viewing Point at the peak of Gionyama.

by cure

(Cut salon)

Shishimai - Ten en

There is an entrance of Ten-en Hiking Trail near Zuisenji. Ten-en route is popular because we can enjoy sight of the ancient caves, panoramic views and autumn leaves.

We recommend Autumn-colors-viewing in Shishimai course and the wide view from near the Ten-en rest stop which is the highest altitude in Yokohama city. Both views are very nice.

by SARYO Inoue

(Japanese foods)

Hase - Genjiyama

Keep going along the street which we introduce above, you will find an entrance of the Hiking trail for the Genjiyama Park, while the other entrance at a side of the tunnel along the route 32 is well known.

(They will meet later.)

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Visit at Kuzuharaoka Jinja 葛原岡神社 in the park and one more walk through another hiking trail toward Jochi-ji in Kitakamakura are our recommendation.

These hiking trails are relatively easy in the comparison with the other Kamakura Hiking Trails, but you had better wear tracking shoes or sneakers because they are the mountain paths.

by CASA.

(Coffee shop)

Kinubari yama

Entering a hiking trail at the Hokokuji area, you can reach the peak of Kinubari Yama. Panorama view at that point is wonderful. An ancient Rock-Shearing point and Tsuka (stone monuments) can be also seen along the trail.

If you want to walk longer, you can keep going to the Nagoe old cut road.

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However, there are a little dangerous points where a side or both sides of the walk-path fall sharply. We must say that more attention to your steps shall be needed in Kinubariyama trail than walking along the popular courses such as Daibutsu hiking trails.

by ARMORIQUE

(Crepe house)

Daibutsu old cut

Entering a hiking trail from near the Great Buddha, you will soon find a fork. Take the right one. Then at the 2nd folk, keep going ahead along the steps to the left.

That way is called 大仏切通し (The Great Buddha cut road) and one of the old Kamakura seven cut roads.

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That road is said to be made in the Kamakura period and the important route from the North districts of Kamakura. It's also said there was a big battle there when the Shogunate was overthrown as well as at the other old cut routes. You can see some caves as existed those days.

I like this course because it's a 20 minute short walk and I can leave halfway through the mountain path into the paved street if I want.

by Tsunenari

(Crafts shop)

Daibutsu - Kitakamakura

An entrance of Daibutsu hiking course is just a few minute walk farther on from the Great Buddha. It's a nice choice to walk to Genjiyama park and then to Kitakamakura area when the weather is nice.

We should never forget that it's a mountain path that is not so well developed as a promenade.

by Biotecca

(Italian Steak)

Various routes

The experienced mountain climber of Feather Legs Outdoor also knowing well about Kamakura Hiking Trails is perfect to provide visitors including from overseas the fun of walking through the mountain trails.

Ancient city of Kamakkura is also the rich array of nature. Not limited to the Daibutsu route, we will guide you all other routes in Kamakura. Personally, I like Asahina route including Asaina old cut road and Kumano jinja.

by Feather Legs Outdoor

(Hiking, Cycling, Yoga)

Genjiyama Park

Kuzuharaoka Jinja is built on the peak of this mountain park and a big statue of Yoritomo is near the shrine.

It is a kind of hub of some hiking trails from Hase and Kitakamakura areas.

Wallking down 化粧坂 (Kesaizaka, a mountain path) from this park is one of the most popular wallk routes.

Genjiyama Park is a big and good park that is surrounded by beautiful nature.

by Mu Shin An

(Japanese sweets cafe)

Daibutsu - Genjiyama

I would like to recommend the nature. Kamakura area was a kind of natural fortress surrounded by mountains soon from the coast line. I heard that it was one of the reasons why the Shogunate could be successfully built.

The long hiking trails go to the several directions. You can take either way of return to the same entrance or exit at the Genjiyama Park. Sneakers are much preferable because some parts, but not so many nor long, are steep, muddy and slippery.

by Magokoro

(Natural foods)

Daibutsu - Genjiyama

Nearest historical spot from Greensward is The great Buddha, Kotoku-in. Then, walking a little bit further, you would find one entrance of the Kamakura Hiking trail.

It forks to the different directions. So visitors had better get a map beforehand and check your location when you get out of the mountains just in case you have taken the unexpected exit.

by Greensward

(Cafe & Bar)

Daibutsu - Genjiyama

The great Buddha of Kotoku-in is within short walking distance, too. If you have time to go hiking, you can reach an entrance of Kamakura hiking courses just a little way further on.

But the next day of rain, I won't go there because it must be muddy. When it's dry, we can expect a nice walk.

Founded in 14C as the family temple for Ashikaga 足利 and Uesugi 上杉, both of which were the famous Samurai clans.

Houkokuji is now one of the most popular Kamakura temples, under the name of "Bamboo temple". It's also the very prestigious Rinzai Zen temple.

The founding priest was a high leveled Buddhist priest named Eko Tengan 天岸慧広 with the Buddhist name of Butsujo Zenji 仏乗禅師. He had studied under Sogen 無学祖元, the founder of Engaguji.

The temple's belongings such as Tokishiyu 東帰集 written in Eko's own hand and his personal wood stamp are registered as the Important National Cultural Properties. They are now housed in the Kamakukra Museum of National Treasures 鎌倉国宝館 in the Hachimangu's grounds.

Tokushiyu is valuable as the first religious Chinese poetry made by Japanese people. Eko made it over the period from his study in China.

* Houkokuji offers Zazen-Kai (座禅会, Zen meditation Class) to the public every Sunday morning, but announces "Please prepare for hard training of Houkokuji's class even for the public Zazen-Kai ." This temple's class seems for the advanced Zen-meditators.

* There is a Green tea cafe innermost the temple's garden that is popular among the visitors.

*Comments by stores

I will also show friends to Houkokuji Temple. It has unparalleled atmosphere in the garden as it's called Bamboo Temple. People I guide to Houkokuji are all pleased, too.

I've never experienced Zazen myself, but I heard that that temple offers public Zen Meditation Class.

by Île Saint Louis

(Cake)

Houkokuji is the temple I like most and always recommend visitors to go there. View of the scenery in the temple's quiet garden is nice and it is also recommended to enjoy Green tea at a cafe located innermost while watching bamboo forest.

by Bar Magokoro

(Bar)

I like this temple very much, too. You would be impressed by its calmness before anything. It is called a Bamboo temple that has been loved by many visitors for a long time.

It's always busy with the visitors, but it would be rather smooth if you visit at 9:00 AM of opening time. It is a good choice to enjoy Maccha at their tea room while seeing the bamboo garden.

by Osteria Gioia

(Italian restaurant)

The cathedral-like bamboo temple of Kamakura, Hokokuji, brings a deep sense of tranquility in every season. Optional matcha enhances the view of the garden.

by Peter Miller

(Artist, Photogravure Etchings)

Ever popular tourist spot is Hokokuji that is known by the name of Bamboo Temple. You would feel the unspeakable calmness in its ground surrounded by a lot of bamboo.

And there is a Green Tea house in the garden where the visitors enjoy Japanese tea. Besides these general features, it has a long history since 14th century and some of their items such as statue and manuscript are known as the specified cultural property. That is a real Rinzai temple.